This week, I had the pleasure of visiting the Champagne region alongside Bertrand d’Aleman from My Private Paris. It is an exceptional part of the country and we were able to see a lot during this short trip, from visiting a world-famous Champagne house to a wander around the region’s capital city Reims.
The Earful Tower podcast episode
Listen below, or wherever you get your podcasts. Scroll down for the five tips.
1) Take the train to get there
France is one of the best (and most cost effective) countries to travel by train and the trip to Champagne is no different. An hour’s journey brings you from Paris straight to the heart of the region to the town of Reims. If the quick and inexpensive journey doesn’t seal the deal for you, think of all the hassle you’re avoiding by taking the train, instead of a car. Don’t ruin a lovely day of walking and wine-tasting by getting stuck in traffic on the way back to peak-hour Paris.
2) Visit a private Champagne house
Take a step off the beaten path and visit the Pierre Paillard Champagne house, which has been established in the region for over 200 years. It is a boutique family business run by brothers Antoine and Quentin, who have created a warm and intimate atmosphere. You can taste the passion and dedication in every drop of their product. And you’ll hear the voice of the house’s hospitality manager, Gautier Le Gonidec, towards the end of this week’s episode.
Address: 2 Rue du 20e Siècle, Bouzy.
3) Be sure to explore the charming town of Reims
Home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites, the city of Reims is a jewel in the crown of this magnificent region. We popped into the iconic Gothic cathedral and marvelled at the ancient Roman archway. Steeped in history both ancient and modern, you can pass a happy few hours strolling these city streets, that reminded us of a quieter, calmer Paris.
4) Visit an iconic Champagne house
The Pommery Champagne estate is famous for all the right reasons – spectacular setting, quality product and its colourful, Wes Anderson-style buildings. As the creator of the brut flavour, you’re literally walking through history in this cornerstone of the wine industry. The top spot for a delicious drink and a quirky photoshoot thanks to the ever-changing modern art that’s on display. Address: 5 Place du Général Gouraud, Reims. Pictured below, Lucas who features on this week’s pod, talking about the classy way to pour Champagne.
5) Consider booking a guide
It was such a treat being guided by Bertrand whose expertise offered a unique spin on this trip. There’s so many places to visit that it can be overwhelming. If you head to the big places you’ll definitely miss out on the lesser-known side of Reims and the vineyards. Book a guided experience with a company like My Private Paris and they’ll take care of everything to give you the best visit to the Champagne region.
My Private Paris is an award-winning travel company creating deluxe itineraries for Paris. See what they offer here and be sure to let them know that you came from The Earful Tower.
My suggestion is to book a night at Chateaux de CRAYERES … owned by the Pommery family (or used to be) and the Pommery Caves are very close … make a full 48 hours of it and go to taittinger as well… but 24 hours stay the evening…. The chateaux has a 2 Michelin star restaurant as well